Glasford inspires runners, donors to join fight against blood cancer

The Nebraska City women behind the Two Girls and Cause say they are preparing for the Rock & Roll San Diego Marathon and Half Marathon with fresh inspiration from their April 5 fundraising event and Lacey Glasford's story.

Glasford, an English teacher at Nebraska City High School, told the event audience how cancer research is giving her a chance at a normal life while she battles chronic myeloid leukemia.

The Nebraska City women behind the Two Girls and Cause say they are preparing for the Rock & Roll San Diego Marathon and Half Marathon with fresh inspiration from their April 5 fundraising event and Lacey Glasford's story.

Glasford, an English teacher at Nebraska City High School, told the event audience how cancer research is giving her a chance at a normal life while she battles chronic myeloid leukemia.

The event, organized by Gina Simrell and Christi Smallfoot, raised $8,992 through donations, silent auction, raffles and even a push-up challenge.

Prior to attempting 50 pushups, Simrell said the event is for all the victims and those fighting cancer and asked people to join the effort to find a cure.

"There are people fighting a battle bigger than you've ever faced," she said.

In addition to Glasford, the event was in honor of Eileen Parisi and Dennis Record and in memory of Mary Lu Cullin.

Dinner was provided by Lady Bug BBQ, music by Brian Booth and caricatures by Bill Dunn.